Ruby Nell Killen Hartley, passed away on her 84th birthday, Jan. 1, 2017 at her home. Services will be held at Spry Williams Funeral Home in Florence on Wednesday, Jan. 4th with a visitation from 1 to 3 p.m. and funeral to follow at 3 p.m. with Brother Pat Driskell officiating. Interment will follow in Greenview Memorial Park.
Ruby Nell was born Jan. 1, 1933, to the late V.H. and Clara Tucker. She lived her entire life in Lauderdale County and was a lifelong member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, currently attending First Cumberland Presbyterian in Rogersville. She was a proud member of the second graduating class of Rogers High School, along with the father of her children, W.F. “Dub” Killen. She continued throughout her life to keep in contact with members of the class of 1951, as well as friends from primary school at St. Michael School.
Ruby Nell worked for many years as a bookkeeper at Mangum’s Furniture, as well as working at TVA and Colonial Bank. Those who knew her expected Ruby Nell to be perfectly matched from head to toe and well accessorized, she never disappointed. Friends also knew her for the countless birthday, get well, and Christmas cards she sent every year.
Ruby Nell was also pre-deceased by husbands Hollis Burns and Beaufort Hartley, and was a proud “Grand Nell” to the Burns grandchildren. She is survived by daughter, Debbie Killen Whitehead; son, Robert F. “Robbie” Killen and wife, Mary Ellen; grandson, Jake Whitehead, of New Albany, Mississippi (of whom she was very proud); grand cat Ike Killen; many cousins who were more like sisters, and countless friends. Also considered family were “sister” Katie Duster and lifelong friend Bill Goode.
The family would like to thank neighbors, Jerri Jefferies and Amanda Stansell for their kindness through the years. Also a special thanks to the “Killen Library Ladies” who were so kind to Ruby Nell helping out with her love of books.
Active pallbearers will be Jeron Witt, Don Killen, Freddie Killen, Bruce Mock, Earl Rutledge, and Bobby Cox. Honorary pallbearer will be Jimmy Paul Burgess.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ruby Nell’s name to Killen Public Library 325 J.C. Mauldin Highway, Killen, AL 35645. You may sign the guest register at sprywilliams.com
